Background The Global Economy and Cultures project responds both to a need formally recognized by the Jesuits in 1995 and a more practical need recognized by Jesuit social research and action centers throughout the world. At the 34th General Congregation of the Society of Jesus, participants recognized that: The globalization of the world economy and society proceeds at a rapid pace...[and while it] can produce many benefits, it can also result in injustices on a massive scale...In justice, we must counter this by working to build up a world order of genuine solidarity, where all can have a rightful place at the banquet of the Kingdom. (General Congregation 34, n.56) At the same time, Jesuit social research and action centers throughout the world were recognizing new local "tensions" or social problems that many associate with global phenomena, including clear signs of an accelerating deterioration in the standard of living of the rural and urban poor. Jesuit centers were encountering new strains on their grassroots development programs, but at the same time were recognizing that creative ways of renewing local cultures were emerging. The Global Economy and Cultures project is the collaborative effort of Jesuit centers throughout the world that responds to these needs through grassroots adult education and empowerment for greater economic self determination. GEC Home  |  Last Updated October 25, 2005